In 1970, educator and community leader Carlos Rosario founded the Program of English Instruction for Latin Americans in Washington, D.C., creating a space where adult learners could gain language skills, pursue their education, and support one another. Over time, the program became a cornerstone of adult education in the city and, by the 1990s, was recognized nationally as an example of excellence in education.

Then, in 1995, a financial crisis led the city to eliminate funding for adult education. The school closed, and with it went the building, staff, and resources. For many, that could have been the end.

Instead, it marked a new beginning.

Determined to continue serving the community, Principal Sonia Gutierrez began rebuilding the program from scratch, starting in her own basement. The team incorporated as a nonprofit and applied for charter school status.

Around this time, RDF was launched to provide capital to community organizations — and quickly became a key partner in bringing the school back to life.

By 1999, RDF provided the financing needed to purchase a building for the school, a critical investment at a time when charter schools had limited access to traditional financing. But RDF’s support went far beyond that. The team offered strategic guidance, toured properties, and even helped structure a holding entity to manage the school’s facilities. When the city’s charter authority held an unusual public hearing to consider the school’s application—due to its focus on adult learners—RDF leadership showed up in person to testify.

In 2004, the first campus officially opened, and the school was renamed Carlos Rosario International Public Charter School in honor of its founder’s vision. Within months, they had a waiting list of more than 1,000 students. With RDF’s continued support, a second campus soon followed.

From the start, RDF has been a true partner and advocate. Their support has been instrumental in the school’s transformation into a nationally recognized model for adult education and workforce development.